Round 6 Transcript

I step closer to Jeane, my silver holy symbol held ready, the cool metal a familiar comfort against my palm. Sister, I feel it too—the hunger in these old spells. My voice is steady but carries the weight of genuine concern. We must approach this carefully. Your power is immense, but dark magic wards like this were built to break spirits before they even reach the door. Let me try something first. I kneel before the gate, placing my free hand palm-down against one of the pulsing runes. I close my eyes, focusing my will into a prayer of protection—more ancient than the stones themselves—and begin to channel a slow, steady flow of divine energy through the symbol. Sanctify this barrier. Purify its purpose. The rune beneath my hand flickers, the violet light shifting to a warmer hue for just an instant before returning to its malevolent glow.

I open my eyes, meeting Jeane's crimson gaze with a small, resolute smile. It resists, but it has not consumed the energy. This is not an immediate threat—it is a test. If we work together, sister-to-sister, we can pass this guardian without summoning its true masters.

I heft my mace in a two-handed grip, the heavy head thudding against my palm as I stare at the gate's pulsing runes. The violet light makes my eyes water, but I don't flinch. Dark magic always has a price. We need to be ready for whatever tries to collect. I glance over at Jeane, her red eyes still fixed on the sigils. Sorcerer, you're our best bet at deciphering this mess. What do you need?